A former manager of the Bundesliga giants has been left less than impressed by the antics of a prolific frontman, but is still tipping him to stay put
Robert Lewandowski has been branded “an egotist” by former Bayern Munich manager Ottmar Hitzfeld, but the prolific striker is still expected to remain at the Allianz Arena.
Amid much talk of a summer move elsewhere, with Real Madrid having long been linked with an approach for the Poland international, the 29-year-old has fanned the transfer flames with his petulant antics.
Lewandowski refused to shake hands with Jupp Heynckes after being replaced by Sandro Wagner 13 minutes from the end of a 3-1 victory over Cologne on Saturday.
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Hitzfeld was left less than impressed by the lack of respect shown by a seasoned performer to his legendary manager, with the Bundesliga champions needing everybody to accept their role in a much bigger picture.
A man who oversaw five title triumphs and a Champions League win during two successful spells at the Bayern helm told Sport1: “I was disappointed when I saw the TV pictures. This is of course a no-go. How he behaved towards a respected person like Jupp Heynckes is wrong.
“When a coach substitutes a player, it is the most normal thing in the world. Then the player has to go off, clap the new player coming in and wish him good luck. It’s not just about respect for coach Heynckes, but also about respect for Wagner.”
Hitzfeld added: “Every striker is a bit of an egotist. He has to score goals and is measured on goals. That’s his job.
“But it is important that the team works. Lewandowski has shot himself in the foot with these actions because they will be criticised not only within the club, but also within the team.”
While condemning Lewandowski for failing to be a team player, Hitzfeld believes that a proven performer will remain at Bayern for the 2018-19 campaign.
Real are already reported to have shifted their attention elsewhere in pursuit of a new frontman, while those in Bavaria have no need to sanction the sale of a prized asset.
“Bayern do not need money, they do not have to take millions to sign a new player,” added Hitzfeld.
“Bayern Munich are very healthy and stable, a leading club which everyone has respect for.
“I believe that Lewandowski has a new advisor who wants to offer the player everywhere, of course, who wants to push the price up a bit and maybe even raise his own salary. But it’s ultimately about Lewandowski – and I’m very angry about his latest performance. That’s not Bayern Munich-like.”
